The Round Tower in Copenhagen Offers History and Views of Landmarks

The Round Tower Provides Spectacular Views of Copenhagen Landmarks with History

Rundetaarn or The Round Tower in Copenhagen was constructed between 1637 and 1642 and served as an astronomical observatory. Denmark was the home of astronomer Tycho Brahe so progressing in astronomical research was important to the Danes. Thus, Christian IV had  the tower constructed to advance research. In addition to such fascinating history, the Round Tower Copenhagen view is one not to be missed.

Climbing The Round Tower

After walking through a section of Copenhagen from our hotel, we were ready to enter Rundetaarn and what a grand entrance it was:

Grand entrance to The Round Tower.

The tower features a spiral ramp which allowed a horse and carriage to go up and down moving equipment and books from the library. You read that right -- horse and carriage. The spiral ramp today is quite a novelty for visitors and fun to go up and down:

During his 1716, Tsar Peter rode on horseback to the top with his wife Katherina following in a horse-drawn carriage. Another look:

Spiral ramp up The Round Tower that horses did go up!

Round Tower Copenhagen View of the City:


After walking up the spiral about 209 meters, you will reach the observation deck which provides many awe moments. Copenhagen landmarks can seen from top observation deck of The Round Tower Copenhagen including Christiansborg Palace:

The crown spire tops Christiansborg Palace in the distance seen from the observatory deck at The Round Tower.

Another skyline perspective with the spire of Trinitatis Church:

Skyline perspective with the spire of Trinitatis Church

Another angle with the intricate spire of the former St. Nicholas Church emerging on the left. The church now holds the Nikolaj Contemporary Art Center.

Copenhagen view from The Round Tower with St. Nicholas Church's spire to the left.

Trinitatis Church

A particularly interesting feature of The Round Tower is that it is attached to Trinitatis Church. Trinitatis Church was consecrated in 1656. We did have a little peek inside:

A peek inside Trinitatis Church.

Trinitatis Church was damaged during a fire in 1728 and sections had to be rebuilt. It once housed a university library which was moved.

Trinitatis Church

Bell Loft

The Round Tower holds the bells for the Trinitatis Church which is attached. Inside you will find the workings of an old clock. The clock never had a face but would strike hours and quarter hours to mark time.

1731 Clock

Additionally, there are exhibits on astronomy and the history of Rundetaarn.

Learning about early astronomy.

In the tower, we also discovered a three-dimensional chart of the solar system which had been mounted in 1928 replacing a 1740 version.

3D Solar System

Combination of Copenhagen Landmarks:

The Round Tower was one of our favorite Copenhagen landmarks to explore. The view from atop the tower afforded us a new way to see so many of Copenhagen's landmarks. The views are spectacular and truly not to be missed. We enjoyed pointing out different structures particularly ones that we had seen on the canal tour earlier in the day. Additionally, we learned a little about Denmark's work in astronomy. Rundetaarn is quite a unique structure and one we are glad that we had on our itinerary.

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.